Athlone Rehabilitation team honoured with special thank you performance

When 83-year-old Gabriella Ricci arrived at Athlone Rehabilitation Unit following a fall that fractured her ankle, she faced significant challenges. Living with dementia and experiencing a decline in mobility, Gabriella needed expert care to regain her independence. Thanks to the dedicated rehabilitation team, she made remarkable progress, regaining mobility and confidence over her four-week stay.

The physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and nursing staff provided tailored support, helping Gabriella transition from using a rollator frame to walking independently with a stick. She actively participated in therapy sessions, group activities, and personal care tasks, all within a welcoming environment that encouraged her recovery. The team also worked closely with her family to ensure a safe discharge, including home adaptations and a personalised care plan.

Gabriella’s family was deeply moved by the care and compassion shown to her. As a heartfelt thank you, her granddaughter, Serenity, gifted the staff and patients with a beautiful steelpan solo performance. This touching gesture filled the unit with joy and gratitude, celebrating the dedication of the Athlone team and the incredible progress Gabriella achieved.

Gabriella's daughter said:

"My 83-year-old mother Gabriella Ricci received exceptional care at the Althone Rehabilitation Unit following a fall that resulted in a fractured fibula.

"Despite her five-year journey with vascular dementia, the family felt completely at ease leaving her there, knowing she was in good hands, having witness upon her arrival the thorough care and observations needed for her recovery.

"The staff provided around the clock care and attention in a friendly,  welcoming clean environment. 

"Mum thrived in this supportive atmosphere. Needless to say after four weeks of rehabilitation she was able to return home safely feeling rejuvenated, reset and recharged to ground floor living confidently.

"As a gesture of our thanks , my 13-year -old daughter Serenity, Gabriella's granddaughter  performed a steelpan solo for all the staff and elderly patients. 

"Mum was happy to return, she fondly recalls her cosy private room with the big television on the wall, opposite the office where the staff kept vigilant watch over her."

Gabriella said:

"I need to see your faces so I don't forget you. You are all fantastic, thank you very much indeed, God Bless you all Doctors, Nurses everybody, I miss you Tanti amore (much Love)"

Andrew Ward, Clinical Therapies Lead and Amabel Berza, Matron for Athlone and Alexandra Rehab Units jointly said:

"This story highlights just one of the many positive impacts the staff at Athlone and Alexandra rehabilitation units have on our patients and makes us immensely proud to lead this team of compassionate and caring healthcare professionals. It was lovely to read Gabriella's story and to see her and her family's thanks and appreciation for the staff."

Gabriella’s recovery shows the power of kind and personalised care. The Athlone Rehabilitation Unit team’s commitment not only restored her independence but also reaffirmed the impact of holistic rehabilitation. Their hard work and kindness truly made a difference, and Serenity’s music was the perfect thank you to their outstanding efforts.